Italy and US Finalize Pax Silica AI Supply Chains Pact After Dispute
Agreement Details and Background
Signing of the Pax Silica Initiative
ROME, July 29 (Reuters) - Italy and the United States on Friday will sign off on a cooperation agreement on the so-called Pax Silica initiative on artificial intelligence supply chains, a statement from Rome's foreign ministry said on Wednesday.
Purpose and Scope of Pax Silica
Pax Silica is a U.S. State Department initiative bringing together allied countries to secure AI-related supply chains, covering areas ranging from semiconductors and critical minerals to advanced manufacturing and AI models.
Key Signatories and Event Location
Ambassador Armando Varricchio and U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta will sign off on the agreement on Friday in Brindisi, southern Italy, the statement said.
Background and Recent Dispute
Postponement of Italy's Participation
Italy was due to join Pax Silica in Miami in June, but Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called off the trip after Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and U.S. President Donald Trump had a public falling out, with Washington accusing Rome of providing little support in the Iran war.
Goals of the Cooperation
"The goal is to foster an ecosystem supporting the growth of these key sectors and to reduce dependence on exporting countries," the Italian ministry added.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Giuseppe Fonte; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
